1. If you like to do it yourself, the print can be mounted in a standard size frame without a mat. We recommend using a frame with a thicker border if you are not using a mat. A thicker frame helps to focus the eye on the photo to give it distinction in its surroundings.
2. For a more formal presentation, the print can be mounted with a precut mat and standard size frame available at many arts and crafts stores. It is helpful to bring the print to the store to see how it looks with various mat colors and frame styles.
3. For a professional presentation and a customized look, a specialist at a framing gallery will be able to help you choose a complementary mat color and frame style.
The window in standard precut mats will be slightly smaller than the standard print size to ensure the print is fully covered.
Sample Frame and Mat Color Combinations
The simplest framing solution is to use a white or off-white mat with a thin black or neutral-color frame. The white mat makes all the colors in the photo appear bright, and a simple black or silver frame makes an elegant statement.
If you choose a mat color that matches the main subject color, the impact of that color will be strengthened, but the main subject will not stand out as well. It is better to choose a mat color that is slightly lighter or more subdued so that the main subject looks brighter than the mat.
This bright yellow mat strengthens the feeling of warmth in the poppies. Choosing a complementary accent color as a mat color is a great way to allow the main subject color to stand out. The yellow mat gives the orange poppies a beautiful glow.
By choosing a light to medium green mat, the dark green leaves stand out against the mat. With a soft green mat, the red tones in the lillies look rich and dramatic.
Preservation of Your Fine Art Photo
If you are framing a print yourself, be sure to clean both sides of the glass and remove any visible specs of dust.
Use an acid-free mat to prevent chemical interactions which can cause the photo to fade. Acid-free photo mounting tape or photo adhesive are also recommended.
Since mat colors can fade over time, you may wish to attach the photo to an acid-free backboard and leave the top mat unattached, simply laying it on top of the mounted photo. If you need to change the top mat, you will be able to do so easily.
To protect the photo and mat from ultraviolet light, UV-protective glass or museum glass is recommended for longer preservation of the photo's beauty. The photo should never be displayed in or near direct sunlight.
For an online framing supply store, see the resources listed at the bottom of the contact page.
